The Diagnostic Performance of Tilt Test in Athletes

The Diagnostic Performance of Tilt Test in Athletes and a Novel Strategy for Its Improvement

In the present study the investigators evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of passive tilt test in athletes, as well as their haemodynamic responses and autonomic nervous system activity during head-up tilt. Moreover, the investigators try to apply a novel algorithm for the improvement of diagnostic yield of tilt test in athletes.

We examine athletes with a history of reflex syncope and athletes without history of reflex syncope.All subjects undergo a tilt test, for the evaluation of haemodynamics, heart rate variability (HRV) and baroreflex sensitivity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 14-40 years old,
• more than 5 years of exercise training experience and competition at a regional level at different sports

Exclusion Criteria:

• smoking,
• recent alcohol consumption,
• presence of any chronic disease and use of drugs